The latest numbers were reported Thursday by the state Department of Workforce Development.

The report shows the state added 12,400 private sector jobs in January while government jobs decreased by 10,600. The department says the large drop in government jobs is likely due to a timing issue related to the University of Wisconsin System's payroll schedule.

Those numbers are based on a survey of about 3.5 percent of businesses and subject to significant revision.

The unemployment rate increased from 6.7 percent to 7 percent, but remains below the national rate of 7.9 percent.

The most reliable data showing how many jobs were created in 2012 is scheduled to be released in June.

Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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